What Jesus Did! 'Anguish' — John 13:20-22

Friday, September 14, 2018

[Jesus said to the disciples,] "I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me." Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!" The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.
— John 13:20-22 NLT
Illustration of John 13:20-22 NLT — "I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me." —— "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!"

Key Thought

Jesus felt anguish! His caring acts for his disciples were carried out as he battled his own personal anguish. His teaching of truth and service were shared with the disciples who would cause a significant part of that anguish. Think of it: God feels anguish at our betrayals and failures to be loyal to him. It is incredible that the infinite God would expose himself to the pain that could be inflicted on him by finite and mortal people he has made. But, God loves us. He has chosen to make us and to be involved in our lives. He has given us the choice to accept or reject him. He wants our love only if it is offered freely. No wonder we can cause him anguish!

Today's Prayer

I am moved, Abba Father, to speechless wonder and awe that you should love me so. I know that I am physically just a speck of dust in comparison to the incredible expanse of your creation. Yet you know me, dear LORD, and it matters to you how I respond to your love. Please know, Father, that I choose to love, honor, and cherish you and live for your glory out of my appreciation of your love. In Jesus' name, I offer my thanks. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Genesis 6:5-6
  • Matthew 26:36-46
  • Luke 13:32-35

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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